By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Nigeria’s Super Falcons returned to winning ways at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on Saturday, defeating Zambia 1-0 in their second Group C match as Azeezat Oshoala’s early strike secured a vital three points for the ten-time African champions.
However, beyond the crucial win, football fans could not stop talking about an extraordinary coincidence involving Oshoala and the number 8.
The veteran striker, wearing the iconic No. 8 jersey, scored the decisive goal in the 8th minute on the 1st day of the 8th month (August). The remarkable sequence immediately set social media buzzing, with fans joking that the “magic of No. 8” had already written the script before the match even kicked off.
Whether fate, fortune or mere coincidence, Oshoala’s “888 moment” became one of the most talked-about highlights of the tournament.
On the pitch, the Super Falcons wasted no time asserting their dominance. Nigeria started brightly, pressing Zambia from the opening whistle, and were rewarded in the eighth minute when Oshoala calmly converted the chance that proved to be the match-winner.
The Copper Queens responded with determination, creating several attacking opportunities as they searched for an equaliser. But Nigeria’s disciplined defence stood firm, frustrating Zambia throughout the contest.
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The Super Falcons also came close to increasing their advantage but could not convert additional chances, leaving Oshoala’s early goal as the difference between the two sides.
The victory keeps Nigeria’s dream of winning a record-extending WAFCON title alive and sends a strong warning to the remaining teams in the competition.
For many supporters, though, Saturday’s encounter will be remembered not only for Nigeria’s hard-earned triumph over Zambia but also for Oshoala’s unforgettable “Lucky No. 8” moment—scoring in the 8th minute, on the 1st day of the 8th month, while wearing the No. 8 jersey.
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Sometimes football writes stories that even the best scriptwriters could never imagine.
